The Community Council for the Arts has earned a reputation as a statewide leader in providing cultural experiences that enhance the community's quality of life.

From programs for children and youth, visual art exhibitions, and workshops and classes to performing artist residencies and summer arts camps, there is something for everyone 12 months a year.

Now, it’s all dressed up in festive holiday attire and amidst its final holiday activities. During the next few days, take advantage of relaxing strolls through the exhibits; do last-minute shopping in the Galleria, where free gift wrapping is available; and mark your calendar for upcoming January events — Stars Dance for the Arts Jan. 12, Soup and a Bowl Jan. 27 and new classes beginning in January.

Exhibits in the Hampton and Permanent Collection galleries will be on view through Saturday.

The 19th Members Exhibition Locals Only, sponsored by the Lenoir County Artist League, is in the Hampton Gallery. Mike Rooney, one of North Carolina's top Plein-Air painters and workshop instructors, was the juror. His art is featured in 12 galleries, mostly in N.C. He tours the Eastern coast, from Cape Cod to the Florida Keys, capturing coastal beauty on canvas.

Among the juried art displayed are the first-, second- and third-place winners, plus many merit winners, including Betty Lou Brown for ‘Peaceful Solitude’; Mary Jo Jefferson for ‘Donuts II’; Carolyn Fletcher for ‘Flower Cart’; Judy Sanders for ‘Swansboro Boats at Rest’; Renee Herlong for ‘Cloudy Sunset on West Ridge’; and Dinah S. Sylivant for ‘Purity.’

In the Permanent Collection Gallery is "ohiowa," an exhibition that includes ceramic works by Amanda Lehtola and Jon Scudamore. Lehtola is staff artist at the Arts Center, and Scudamore is her husband. They have MFA and BFA degrees, respectively, in ceramics from Kent State University. "ohiowa" represents their midwest background, which has been a strong influence on their art and livelihood. Works featured show a variety of pattern, texture and firing techniques.

Nancy S. Saunders can be reached at 252-559-1079 or Nancy.Saunders@Kinston.com.